@ HrCookie:
since you are just 17 we're probably talking about the FAA PPL (since you mentioned taking flying lessons in the US). The only book you need in this case is the Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge published by the FAA (which was already mentioned by zondaracer). It's available as a free download on the FAA Website or as a paperback at Amazon (I'd recommend the paper version at Amazon). This book covers all you need to know as a PPL Pilot and even beyond! At this point you don't need to bother yourself with any additional books, like IFR or even the JAA ATPL books, that's far beyond the scope of a prospective student pilot at this point!
Last edited by Transsonic2000; 21st Jul 2011 at 15:29.